Gina'S Vegetable Casserole
A hearty vegetable casserole featuring peas, corn, beans, and a creamy Cheddar topping, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine peas, corn, wax beans, cream of celery soup, chopped onion, grated Cheddar, chopped celery, and sour cream in a bowl.
- Spread the mixture evenly in a 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle crushed Cheez Its and additional grated Cheddar over the top of the casserole.
- Drizzle melted butter evenly over the entire casserole.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more sour cream or using a flavored cream soup instead of cream of celery. If you want to reduce calories, you can substitute reduced-fat Cheddar and sour cream. Feel free to mix in other vegetables like diced bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. This casserole is a great way to use up leftover vegetables as well.
Serving Suggestions
This vegetable casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside grilled chicken or baked fish. It’s also a great side dish for holiday gatherings or potlucks. Consider serving with a dollop of your favorite Baked Potato Sauce for an extra touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, though the oven method will keep the topping crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gina'S Vegetable Casserole contains roughly 435 calories, with 11g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (42% of the Daily Value), calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 513mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of canned?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be used as a substitute for canned ones. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before mixing into the casserole to avoid excess moisture. This is a great way to include fresh flavors and nutrients while keeping the recipe within vegetarian recipes.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, substitute Cheez Its with gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs. Additionally, ensure the cream of celery soup is gluten-free, or make your own using a gluten-free flour blend. This way, you can enjoy the dish without compromising on taste.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole and assemble it in advance. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).